TRIBUTES are being paid for a leading Solihull councillor and former mayor who has died in hospital.

Coun Les Kyles, a Conservative for the Knowle ward, passed away on Tuesday after suffering from a short illness.

The 76-year-old, who was born in Glasgow, was a well known face on the political scene in Solihull having first been elected to the council in May 1992.

Coun Kyles, who lived in Hampton-in-Arden, was chairman of the planning and regulatory committee and also chair of the planning sub-committee and Blythe Valley working party.

The former mayor was also chairman of the airport working party and he sat on numerous other panels and boards.

Coun Kyles, a keen gardener and stamp collector, was married to Moira and had two daughters and two grandchildren.

Coun Ted Richards, leader of Solihull Council, paid tribute to his colleague and said he would be sadly missed.

"We are deeply saddened by this news," said Coun Richards (Con, Castle Bromwich). "Coun Kyles was a hard working and dedicated councillor who always did his utmost for the people of Knowle and the borough.

"He will be greatly missed by us all. Our sincere condolences go to his family."

Arrangements for Coun Kyles' funeral are being finalised.

Solihull Council said there would be no by-election for Coun Kyles' seat as he was up for re-election in May.